EY Survey: Nearly 80% of Global Companies Plan to Increase Occupational Safety and Health Budgets in the Next Three Years
The global EHS maturity study released by Ernst & Young (EY) in August 2025 shows that 78% of companies and government agencies worldwide plan to increase their environmental, health, and safety (EHS) budgets over the next three years. Based on a survey of 526 executives and EHS leaders across 34 countries, the study indicates that EHS investment not only enhances compliance and operational efficiency but also strengthens organizational resilience. Data from the International Labour Organization (ILO) shows that approximately 3 million people die each year from work-related accidents or diseases globally, an increase of 5% compared to 2015.
Key Findings
- According to an EY survey, nearly four-fifths (78%) of companies and government agencies worldwide plan to increase their environmental, health, and safety (EHS) budgets over the next three years in response to rising workplace injury and fatality rates.
- EY stated that through EHS investments, organizations can improve operational efficiency, enhance their reputation, andimprove resilience and business performance. EHS programs cover multiple areas including waste management, workplace safety, water conservation, and mental health support.
- "Investing in EHS not only helps with regulatory compliance but also enhances the ability to operate effectively and responsibly," said Jessica Wollmuth, EY Global EHS Co-Leader, in a statement. She emphasized that despite current market volatility and budget constraints, companies should prioritize EHS spending.
In-Depth Analysis
A 2023 report by the International Labour Organization (ILO) indicates that approximately3 million people die annually from work-related accidents or diseases, an increase of 5% compared to 2015. ILO data shows that among the 2.6 million deaths, the majority are caused by malignant tumors, circulatory and respiratory diseases contracted at work, while the rest result from accidents. Agriculture, construction, forestry, fishing, and manufacturing are the highest-risk industries.
EY noted that over the past three years, the primary reason organizations increased EHS spending was "to promote health and well-being," adding that "this is almost certainly a response to high injury and fatality rates in many markets."
The survey showed that among companies proactively investing in EHS programs, 73% reported reduced costs during unexpected disruptions, compared to 64% of those taking a reactive approach. Among the so-called "EHS leaders," 81% said their programs enhanced business value, while only 59% of other respondents said the same. Additionally, nearly four-fifths (79%) of respondents said their EHS approach improved operational efficiency, reflected in increased productivity, greater innovation, and fewer health-related incidents.
Among respondents planning to increase EHS spending, the most likely future focuses are achieving sustainability goals, promoting employee health and well-being, and advancing technological progress.
The survey was conducted by EY between March and April this year, covering 526 C-level executives and EHS leaders across 34 countries and multiple industries. All respondent organizations had annual revenues or budgets of at least $500 million.